Ministry of Education Drivers Remanded Over Alleged Government Vehicle Theft

Ministry of Education Drivers Remanded Over Alleged Government Vehicle Theft

Two drivers employed by the Ministry of Education have been remanded to the Male Correctional Facility in Freetown following allegations of conspiring to steal government vehicles.

Alie Kamara and Abubakarr Koroma appeared before Magistrate Mustapha Brima Jah at Pademba Road Court No. 1, facing formal charges of conspiracy and larceny.

According to court documents, the defendants allegedly conspired with unknown accomplices on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, at the Ministry’s premises in New England Ville, Freetown, to steal a white JAC vehicle (registration number AWV 063).

Prosecutors further allege that the pair orchestrated the theft of a second vehicle—a white JAC J6 4x4 pick-up truck valued at Le 636,000—which was in Kamara’s custody at the time of the incident.

Both vehicles belonged to the Ministry of Education. Upon being formally charged, Kamara and Koroma pleaded not guilty to all counts.

Lead prosecutor Deputy Superintendent of Police Eric A. Deen Esq. confirmed that the case and inquiry files had been served to the defense.

Acknowledging receipt of the materials, both defendants signaled their intention to cross-examine prosecution witnesses during trial.

Citing the severity of the charges and the need to protect public assets, Magistrate Jah denied bail for both men.

The court ordered Kamara and Koroma remanded in custody until their next scheduled court appearance on September 7, 2026.

The case has brought renewed attention to internal security protocols and asset management within public sector institutions. While the Ministry of Education has yet to issue a formal statement, the proceedings highlight ongoing efforts to enforce accountability across state departments.

Further legal developments are expected when proceedings resume in September.